A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Airlie Beach for Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Airlie Beach can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a serene, laid back, and relaxed area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a laid back, slow-paced, and idyllic town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Khao Lak and Airlie Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Airlie Beach. Although Khao Lak and Airlie Beach are both popular with visitors, Airlie Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Khao Lak is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Airlie Beach is popular for its tours and transportation that visit the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands. It is also home to the Airlie Beach Lagoon.

How is Khao Lak different from Airlie Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Airlie Beach and Khao Lak. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

Neither Khao Lak or Airlie Beach offer quality museums and landmarks.

Khao Lak offers a few options for museum-goers. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Airlie Beach. Oceanfront beauty is what this town is all about, so you won't find much is the form of museums and manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Airlie Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Khao Lak and Airlie Beach can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Khao Lak offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Airlie Beach has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a good selection of restaurants in town that offer everything from freshly caught local seafood to fine dining or casual. Try to pick a place with a view.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Airlie Beach has a better nightlife scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

If you're looking for night time activities Airlie Beach has a few options to choose from. The town has a number of nightlife venues that include DJ hosted parties, beachfront cocktail lounges, and mellow local bars.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach Better for Resorts?

Airlie Beach is an amazing town to visit for its resorts. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Airlie Beach is a world class resort vacation destination. There's everything from posh resorts and luxury hotels to family-friendly campgrounds. There are also hostels that cater to the budget crowd.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Airlie Beach is an amazing town to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

Airlie Beach is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can't snorkel right off the shore because the water is murky and mucky, but there are excursions that will take you to the Great Barrier Reef. There are many day cruises that will take you out on the reef to several sights where you may see beautiful coral, sea turtles, or even reef sharks.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach Better for Beaches?

Both Khao Lak and Airlie Beach are considered to be fantastic beach destinations.

Khao Lak is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Airlie Beach offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Near town there are world class beaches that range from secluded and idyllic to those lined with luxury resorts. For an escape, head to Hideaway Bay or Dingo Beach. If you don't want to leave town, there's also Airlie Beach, which is right off the Main Street. You likely won't want to swim here, but you can enjoy a picnic. Whatever beach you chose, do confirm that there's a stinger net.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach Better for Hiking?

Airlie Beach is an amazing town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Around Airlie Beach visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find many incredible hiking trails in the area. Conway National Park is a great place to hike through the rainforest and Conway State Forest is another nice spot.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Airlie Beach and Khao Lak.

Khao Lak is a great destination for shopping. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Airlie Beach. Head to the town's main street for your typical souvenir shops and holiday stores.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Airlie Beach are very good to visit with kids.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Airlie Beach is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy playing in the Airlie Beach Lagoon, visiting the markets, or hanging out at the local beaches or playgrounds. If you're hoping to swim in the ocean, be very aware of the season and the conditions.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach Better for Couples?

Both Khao Lak and Airlie Beach are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Khao Lak is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Airlie Beach is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples often use this as a gateway to the stunning Whitsunday Islands. The dining scene is good and there are countless outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. There are also many different resorts in the area.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak and Airlie Beach are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Many backpackers visit Airlie Beach. If you're hoping to visit the Whitsunday Islands, then is a good place to base yourself as a backpacker. It has a decent selection of hostels and there are a number of restaurants and other dining options.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Khao Lak and Airlie Beach.

You'll find some public transit in Khao Lak, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

While Airlie Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a public bus that runs from Proserpine to Shute Harbour. The main bus station is near the city center and the main beach.

Is Khao Lak or Airlie Beach a more walkable city?

Airlie Beach is a great destination for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Airlie Beach is very walkable. The town itself is walkable, but the surrounding area is hilly and requires a car.

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable area. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Airlie Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Airlie Beach or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

Both Khao Lak and Airlie Beach have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Airlie Beach has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Airlie Beach than Khao Lak. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 4-7 days is enough time in Airlie Beach.

Families should spend more time in Airlie Beach than Khao Lak. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Airlie Beach, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Airlie Beach than Khao Lak. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Airlie Beach that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Airlie Beach than Khao Lak if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Airlie Beach.

One day in Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this idyllic area offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful town of Airlie Beach offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

Khao Lak is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Airlie Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this relaxed destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Airlie Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Airlie Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

Khao Lak is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Airlie Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Airlie Beach has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Airlie Beach, we can see that Airlie Beach is more expensive. And not only is Khao Lak much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Khao Lak is in Asia and Airlie Beach is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Khao Lak would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Khao Lak and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Airlie Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Airlie Beach than you might in Khao Lak.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Khao Lak Expensive? and Is Airlie Beach Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Khao Lak or Airlie Beach?

Airlie Beach has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Khao Lak experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Airlie Beach in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Airlie Beach. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, many travelers come to Airlie Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Airlie Beach in the summer. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Airlie Beach this time of the year. In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives less sunshine than Airlie Beach during summer. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Airlie Beach receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

Airlie Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Khao Lak usually receives less rain than Airlie Beachin January. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 331 mm (13 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Airlie Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Airlie Beach. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Airlie Beach in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Khao Lak is a little warmer than Airlie Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Khao Lak in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Airlie Beach averages at about 23°C (73°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Airlie Beach. In the autumn, Khao Lak often gets less sunshine than Airlie Beachin April. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Airlie Beach receives 207 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Airlie Beach. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in October than Airlie Beachin April. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Airlie Beach in the Winter?

Both Airlie Beach and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Airlie Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Airlie Beachin July. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (80°F), and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Airlie Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Airlie Beach during winter. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Airlie Beach receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of rain as Airlie Beachin July. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Airlie Beach in the Spring?

Both Airlie Beach and Khao Lak during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Airlie Beach because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Khao Lak is a little warmer than Airlie Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Airlie Beach fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in October.

In Airlie Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the spring, Khao Lak often gets less sunshine than Airlie Beachin October. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Airlie Beach receives 298 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in April than Airlie Beachin October. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Airlie Beach receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Typical Weather for Airlie Beach and Khao Lak